The West Coast Edition: Three Swoon-Worthy Destinations West Coasters Should Add to Their Lists

by | October 25, 2022

Looking to stay closer to home? We’ve got you covered with 3 epic trip ideas reachable from the West Coast. All you’ll need is your carry on.

No. 1

French Polynesia

Icons of the South Pacific, Tahiti, Bora Bora and Moorea are quite simply unlike anywhere else on Earth. Often referred to simply as Tahiti, the island territory of French Polynesia consists of 118 islands in six different archipelagos, stretching over an area almost the size of Europe. Images of her bright blue lagoons, pierced by ardent green mountain peaks, and dotted with luxurious overwater bungalows, have become synonymous with honeymoons and romance.

What to do

    ·Suit up in your snorkel gear to witness underwater life at the Coral Garden in Bora Bora’s lagoon, encountering such marine life as sea turtles, rays, reef sharks and a dazzling array of tropical fish.
    ·Take a dip right off the edge of your very own overwater bungalow. This iconic accommodation is a must for at least a few nights of your trip.
    ·Discover Moorea by horseback. Traverse through pineapple fields and tropical forests and past waterfalls as you take in breathtaking views of the caldera and Moorea.

Where to Stay

On a mystical island with its necklace of white-fringed coral islets, Four Seasons Bora Bora’s exotic over-water suites and beachfront villas immerse you in ultramodern comforts and the spirit of French Polynesia.

Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora offers 107 spacious hideaways within 100 over-water bungalows and 7 beachfront villas. Nestling around the Bora Bora lagoon and its outer beaches, they overlook the lagoon’s turquoise waters and spectacular views of Mount Otemanu. Inspired by local architecture, all guest accommodations offer a restful, airy ambience – complete with traditional teak wood furnishings, high ceilings and thatched roofs made from pandanus leaves.

Book through us and get:

    ·Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability · Daily full breakfast for two guests · $100 USD equivalent food & beverage credit, to be utilized during stay (not combinable, no cash value if not redeemed in full) · Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability · Complimentary Wi-Fi

Must-Have Item

Float away to paradise on a Pineapple Pool Float. This festive float is the perfect companion for soaking up the Tahitian Sun. With an easy-to-lounge-on shape, you’ll be perfectly set to laze away on the gentle lagoon breeze.

No. 2

La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Discover the magic of the rainforest where laid-back luxury and adventure meet. Overlooking La Fortuna is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic sites, the Arenal Volcano. Arenal is referred to as the adventure capital of Costa Rica for good reason. Experience zip lining across the top of the rainforest canopy, or rappelling down the side of Arenal’s waterfalls. Traverse hanging bridges and trek over dry lava fields to examine pristine rainforests. Discover waterfalls and crystal blue rivers, and soak in hot springs.

What to do

    ·Experience the rainforest from a unique perspective on the Mistico Hanging Bridges. Make your way from the forest floor up through the jungle canopy, traversing a series of trails and suspension bridges.
    ·Not to be missed are a dip in the thermal river pools and hot springs. While Arenal has been dormant for thousands of years, it’s geothermal heat supports a network of naturally flowing thermal mineral springs.
    ·Head out on an after-dark exploration with one of the hotel guides in search of translucent “glass frogs”. Their see-through skin helps them camouflage from predators.

Where to Stay

Built on stilts to maximize the stunning vistas, Nayara Tented Camp leaves a minimal footprint. The experience is secluded and romantic for couples, or fun and educational for the whole family. Inspired in the African safaris but conceived in the tropical Costa Rican rainforest, the tents are a mix of sustainable luxury with a “Pura Vida” vibe. If a soothing soak is a staple in your self-care routine, prepare to swoon over the tub; or if an outdoor shower with the stars is your thing, you will have a lifetime experience. A great place to reset and recharge, far from civilization and close to nature, and with great sleep helped by the calming sounds of the rainforest.

Must-Have Item

Costa Rica has warm temperatures year-round so staying cool while also being protected from harmful UV rays is a must. We love the Women’s PFG Tidal Deflector Ice™ Long Sleeve Hoodie from Columbia that has innovative sun-deflecting dots send damaging rays packing with UPF 50 sun protection. Plus it has advanced cooling and moisture wicking that turns sweat into a cool breeze—even cooler than a day on the water.

No. 3

Vancouver Island, Canada

Remote inlets, private bays and small islands surrounded by pristine, old-growth conifer forest. An ancient landscape carved by the ocean, the west coast of Vancouver Island is richly biodiverse. Untouched by time, the coastal ecosystem has evolved freely and now plays host to thousands of species of flora and fauna. A diverse range of ecosystems exists on Vancouver Island, ranging from temperate coastal rainforest and old growth conifer forest to oceans and rocky coastal shores providing habitats for a vast array of species, many of which are endangered or rare.

What to do

    ·Jump on a paddle board from the top of Bedwell Sound and paddle up the glacier fed Bedwell River to a waterfall channel and several hidden waterholes. Here, in the deep calm waters, hundreds of salmon gather, creating a rewarding spectacle for snorkellers and swimmers.
    ·Ride the tide to paddle the maze-like estuary, watching for foraging bears along the rocky shore, eagles’ nests in the forest canopy and otters, wild salmon and other native fish species in the water along the way.
    ·Explore paths of cedar boardwalk trails lead through ancient forest cathedrals and lush fern gardens, while abandoned roads deep in the rainforest showcase old-growth, new growth and re-forested landscapes, home to abundant wildlife.

Where to Stay

Gloriously remote and set in one of Canada’s wildest and most astounding natural settings, Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge is a luxury settlement in the style of the turn-of-the-century prospectors, complete with canvas tents and central guest outpost. Clayoquot offers guests an unforgettable experience of Vancouver Island’s Clayoquot Sound, where the landscape and wildlife combine in an enchanting adventure. Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge is open seasonally during the warmer months from May to September.

Adventures abound in the wildly diverse natural playground at Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge with seemingly endless options from exhilarating heli-flights and remote hiking to rewarding wildlife-spotting and yoga. The experiences on offer at Clayoquot promise an unforgettable journey of shared discovery and memory-making with those who matter most.

Book through us and get:

    ·Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability · Daily full breakfast already included in rates · $150CAD Helicopter credit to be utilized during stay · Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability · Complimentary Wi-Fi

Must-Have Item

Clayoquot’s wildlife includes American black bear, cougar, American mink and grey wolf. The sound is home to grey whales, orcas, humpback whales and porpoises as well as the California sea lion. Pack your binoculars so you don’t miss a beat. Optimized with select glass elements to deliver exceptional resolution, cut chromatic aberration and provide outstanding color fidelity, Vortex Optic’s Crossfire HD Binoculars provide edge-to-edge sharpness and light transmission.

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